Third Death Linked to Measles Outbreak in Pennsylvania

A 40-year-old unvaccinated woman in Pennsylvania has died, likely due to complications from measles, as reported by Jefferson County coroner Greg Furlong. This marks the third death related to the expanding outbreak in the state.

Pennsylvania is currently facing a worsening measles outbreak with over 670 individuals affected and 124 hospitalized. Last month, the state health department reported two deaths associated with the outbreak. This has sparked debate about whether these fatalities were directly caused by measles.

The immediate cause of death for the woman was respiratory failure “due to suspected measles,” according to a preliminary death certificate. Though testing has not confirmed measles, she exhibited classic symptoms, including the characteristic rash. She also had recent exposure to a measles case, which heightened suspicion. A nasal swab will be tested for measles at the state laboratory, Furlong stated.

The woman had underlying health issues such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (C.O.P.D.) and required continuous supplemental oxygen. These conditions made her more susceptible to severe measles complications.

The state health department has yet to add this death to its official count but is in regular contact with Furlong.

While most measles cases are mild in the United States, one in five unvaccinated individuals with the virus ends up hospitalized. Complications include pneumonia, severe dehydration, and brain swelling. Higher risk groups include young children, adults over 20, and those with weakened immune systems.

Although measles-related deaths are rare in the United States, the recent rise in cases has led to several fatalities. Last year saw the first such deaths in a decade, with two school-aged children and one adult succumbing to complications from measles.

Teddy Rosenbluth, a Times reporter, focuses on health news, emphasizing medical misinformation.